Aerospace is frequent early adopter of Additive Manufacturing as the technology promises dramatic weight reductions.
Antennas are an ever-present component in all commercial and military aircraft, as well as in satellites, UAVs and ground terminals.
However, Optisys believes they are typically too heavy, particularly with the RF antennas implemented in aerospace.
Following a partnership with U.S software company ANSYS, Optisys developed an alternative method to 3D print the components by utilizing simulation software.
With the two technologies, Optisys is able to design parts that are significantly lighter with savings of up to 95%. By doing so, Optisys states it has managed to reduce not only the number of parts, but also the weight of parts, the lead times and the production costs.
Optisys has several pending patents and is hoping to work with more aerospace companies and academics to advance the use of Additive Manufacturing in this field.